Who Says Food From the 1960's Isn't Still Popular?

By Meg Jones - wife, mother,
professional, contributor

My food related memories of the '60s also include cocktail parties, where my parents and their friends consumed mysterious drink concoctions with enticing names like "Manhattan" or "Rob Roy."

I loved these parties because I could sneak in unnoticed and help myself to "pigs in a blanket" or some other form of cocktail frank, deviled eggs, spinach balls, onion dip, stuffed mushrooms, and two of my favorites that I still serve my baby boomer friends: Asparagus Rolls and Mini-Reubens.

Asparagus Rolls

Asparagus rolls from the 1960s evoke a sense of nostalgia, transporting us back to a time when classic dishes reigned supreme at dinner parties and family gatherings. These delightful appetizers perfectly represent the era's culinary style: elegant yet straightforward, showcasing fresh ingredients with minimal fuss.

The key components of asparagus rolls are simple: fresh asparagus spears, thinly sliced bread, and a creamy filling. In the 1960s, canned asparagus was often used due to its convenience, although fresh asparagus was certainly not unheard of for those who preferred a more gourmet touch. The bread, typically white or wheat, was thinly sliced and often trimmed of its crust to create a more refined presentation.

Fillings

The creamy filling is where the magic happens. Common fillings included a mixture of cream cheese, mayonnaise, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Some variations might have included grated cheese, chopped herbs, or minced onions for added flavor. This creamy concoction served as the perfect complement to the tender-crisp asparagus, binding the roll together while adding a rich, indulgent layer to each bite.

Preparation

Preparing asparagus rolls was a labor of love, requiring a bit of finesse and attention to detail. First, the asparagus spears were blanched to preserve their vibrant green color and crisp texture. Next, the bread slices were flattened using a rolling pin to ensure they could easily wrap around the asparagus without breaking. Then came the assembly: a generous spread of the creamy filling on each slice of bread, followed by a neatly lined row of asparagus spears. Finally, the bread was tightly rolled around the asparagus, creating a beautiful spiral of green peeking through the creamy interior.

Once assembled, the rolls were often chilled for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set, making them easier to slice into bite-sized portions. Before serving, the rolls might be garnished with additional herbs, paprika, or a drizzle of melted butter for an extra touch of elegance.

Asparagus rolls quickly became a staple at cocktail parties, luncheons, and holiday gatherings throughout the 1960s, appreciated for their simplicity, versatility, and crowd-pleasing appeal. They epitomized "retro-chic," embodying the era's penchant for stylish yet approachable cuisine.

Today, as we look back on the culinary trends of the 1960s, asparagus rolls stand out as a timeless classic, a dish that continues to charm and delight with its timeless elegance. Whether enjoyed as a nostalgic nod to the past or introduced to a new generation of food lovers, these savory little bites evoke smiles and spark conversations, proving that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most enduring.

History

The exact origin of asparagus rolls is not definitively documented, but they gained popularity during the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States. Like many classic recipes, asparagus rolls likely evolved over time, with variations appearing in different regions and households.

The concept of wrapping vegetables in bread or pastry is not unique to asparagus rolls, as similar recipes featuring other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peppers can be found in various cuisines worldwide. However, asparagus rolls became a popular appetizer, especially during the 1960s and 1970s, when elegant yet straightforward dishes were in vogue for dinner parties and gatherings.

While we may not know the exact individual who first created asparagus rolls, they have undoubtedly become a beloved classic, cherished for their simplicity, versatility, and delicious taste. Over the years, the recipe has been passed down through generations, with each cook adding their own unique twist or variation to suit personal tastes and preferences.

Regardless of their precise origin, asparagus rolls continue to hold a special place in many people's hearts and kitchens, serving as a delightful reminder of the timeless appeal of classic appetizers from bygone eras.

Current Popularity

Asparagus rolls may not be as ubiquitous on modern menus as they were in the 1960s and 1970s, but they certainly haven't disappeared entirely. These classic appetizers have experienced a resurgence in recent years, as retro and nostalgic dishes have come back into fashion among food enthusiasts and home cooks.

In today’s culinary landscape, asparagus rolls often appear in updated forms that cater to contemporary tastes and dietary preferences. Chefs and home cooks have been experimenting with new variations by incorporating different fillings, using whole-grain or gluten-free bread, and even grilling or roasting the asparagus for added flavor.

Moreover, asparagus rolls continue to be a popular choice for parties, gatherings, and holiday celebrations, appreciated for their elegance, simplicity, and crowd-pleasing nature. They offer a perfect balance of freshness from the asparagus, creaminess from the filling, and crunch from the bread, making them a versatile and satisfying appetizer option.

Asparagus rolls are finding their way back onto tables and into recipe books, thanks to a growing interest in cooking and exploring traditional recipes with a modern twist. They serve as a delightful reminder of the past while offering endless opportunities for creativity and innovation in the kitchen.

In conclusion, while asparagus rolls may not dominate the appetizer scene as they once did, they continue to hold a cherished spot in culinary history and remain a beloved dish enjoyed by many today. Whether you're a fan of retro recipes or simply looking for a delicious appetizer to serve at your next gathering, asparagus rolls will surely delight and impress!

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